Short-Term Effect of Biochar on Microbial Biomass, Respiration and Enzymatic Activities in Wastewater Irrigated Soils in Urban Agroecosystems of the West African Savannah

Irrigated urban agriculture (UA) supports the economy and health of inhabitants in low-income countries. This system is often characterized by high nutrient inputs mostly utilizes wastewater for irrigation. Biochar has been proposed to increase crop yields improve soil properties. In this study, we assessed transient effect rice husk biochar (20 t ha−1) and/or fertilizer (NPK: 15-15-15) on microbial respiration, biomass carbon enzyme activities irrigated (wastewater tap water) from an UA field experiment Guinea savannah zones Ghana. Our results showed up 123% organic (SOC) after a year application, while hot water extractable (HWEC) was increased only 11 26% (MBC) 34%. Basal respiration significantly mineral fertilized 46% but decreased 12–45% under Overall, metabolic quotient (qCO2) indicated less stress community use efficiency with application Total enzymes activity irrigation treated soils exhibit more diverse composition C-cycling higher aminopeptidases. positive effects biological properties contributed fertility. suggest beneficial non-biochar SOC stocks long term.